Two men convicted of manslaughter in the death of PC Andrew Harper have drawn criticism for their conduct both during their trial and their subsequent incarceration, according to a former prison officer. Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers were jailed in July 2020 following a high-profile trial at the Old Bailey, but a source familiar with their behaviour inside the prison system says they showed no remorse and made disparaging remarks about Harper’s widow, Lissie.

The ex-guard, who worked with the pair while they were held at young offenders’ institutions in Yorkshire and later at HMP Feltham in West London, described their attitude as defiant and disrespectful. They were reported to have mocked the victim’s widow while being transported to court and openly discussed assigning blame to their co-defendant, Henry Long, for Harper’s death. The former officer said the two defendants laughed and joked throughout the trial, actions that were deeply upsetting to prison staff and others aware of the case.

Both men were initially held in separate units at Feltham to prevent communication about the case, but the source explained that they still managed to speak to each other during daily transfers to court. At the Old Bailey, they were detained within high-security category A units, which typically house dangerous or high-profile prisoners, including convicted offenders such as Wayne Couzens and Hashem Abedi. Their disruptive behaviour in court reportedly included repeatedly triggering emergency alarms, calling for trivial requests, and mocking courtroom staff.

Inside HMP Feltham, Cole was placed on an enhanced regime unit, receiving privileges such as additional gym time and higher canteen allowances despite being classified as a restricted prisoner. Cole’s background as an accomplished boxer contributed to his reputation for intimidation and violence, with several incidents reportedly occurring within the prison’s showers. Bowers, by contrast, was described as less physically aggressive but possessing a "menacing aura," stemming from a serious family background. Both men were seen as disruptive influences, causing distress among fellow inmates and staff alike.

The former prison officer expressed strong opposition to any consideration of early release for Cole and Bowers, arguing that their attitudes demonstrated a lack of remorse and respect for the victim’s family. “Anyone who saw them at trial or in jail would think it’s utterly wrong they could get early release. They are the last people who should be considered for it,” the source said.

Attempts to obtain comment from the Ministry of Justice on the claims were unsuccessful.